Drug Classification and Naming

Which classification of drugs refers to their therapeutic use?

What is a common feature of non-proprietary (generic) names?

Why is it important to use proprietary names for drugs with a low therapeutic index?

Which of the following is NOT a reason for promoting the use of non-proprietary names?

What term refers to drugs with specific commercial names owned by companies?

Which of the following examples exemplifies the use of a drug's therapeutic class in its non-proprietary name?

What does the use of proprietary names ensure regarding complex formulations?

What is a common disadvantage of using proprietary names for drugs?

Which of the following endings in drug names generally indicates a benzodiazepine?

What is an advantage of using non-proprietary names in drug prescribing?

Drug Classification

Drugs can be classified by various factors
- Therapeutic use (e.g., antimicrobial, antidiabetic, analgesic)
- Mode of action (e.g., receptor blocker, enzyme inhibitor)
- Site of action (e.g., loop diuretic, cell wall inhibitor)
- Molecular structure (e.g., glycoside, alkaloid, steroid)

Non-Proprietary Names (Generic Names)

Promoting regular use of generic names improves clarity
- Allows identification of drug class from name suffix
  - -azepam drugs (e.g., diazepam, nitrazepam) are benzodiazepines
  - -olol drugs (e.g., atenolol, metoprolol, bisoprolol) are beta-adrenergic blockers
  - -pril drugs (e.g., lisinopril, enalapril) are ACE inhibitors
  - -floxacin drugs (e.g., ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin) are quinolone antibacterials
Generic names often lead to cost savings
Pharmacists have more flexibility in supplying generic equivalents

Proprietary Names

Promoting proprietary name use can enhance consistency in product quality and bioavailability, especially for drugs with a narrow therapeutic range
- Important for drugs like digoxin and warfarin, whose dosage greatly affects patients
Necessary for specialized drugs (e.g., sustained-release formulations)
Mixtures of drugs sometimes receive proprietary names since prescribing all ingredients is impractical
Critical for international travelers with chronic illnesses, as proprietary names vary between countries.

This quiz covers the classification of drugs based on therapeutic use, mode of action, site of action, and molecular structure. Additionally, it explores the significance of non-proprietary (generic) and proprietary names in pharmacology. Test your knowledge on how these classifications impact medication clarity and cost savings.